In an agreement with the state, Tarbert plead guilty to one count of first-degree felony murder, three counts of third-degree felony tampering with evidence, one count of fourth-degree conspiracy to commit tampering with evidence, three counts of fourth-degree possession of a firearm by a felon, one count of fourth-degree larceny of a firearm, one count of fourth-degree larceny over $500 and one count of fourth-degree receiving or disposing of stolen property (firearm).

In exchange for his guilty plea, the state agreed to drop two counts of second-degree felony criminal sexual penetration against him.

Tarbert is facing a possible life sentence plus one year. A life sentence is a mandatory 30 years in prison before a person can go before the parole board.

Representing the state, Chief Deputy District Attorney David Ceballes said he believes no one in New Mexico has ever been paroled under that particular law.

"Tarbert plead guilty to all of the charges in three of the four cases," Ceballes said. "During the plea hearing, (Tarbert's attorney Gary) Mitchell discussed with the judge that this is a reasonable and fair plea agreement under the circumstances. (Detective David) Hunter has been in close contact with Pruitt's family. When it comes to sentencing, the family will be present. It's a mere formality for the judge when it comes to sentencing. The family did want to be present and will have some comments for the court."

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Pruitt, 25, of Sheffield, Ala., was a living at the same residence with Lawrence Tarbert, 31, and his wife, Jessica Tarbert, 29, for several months prior to his death.

At the time of Tarbert's arrest, Otero County Sheriff Benny House said it was learned through investigation that Lawrence Tarbert was directly connected with Pruitt's homicide and Lawrence was planning to move to Massachusetts at the end of January 2013.

Lawrence was arrested in Nuckolls County, Neb., then extradited to Otero County and charged with Pruitt's murder.

Jessica Tarbert was also arrested in Nebraska and extradited to Otero County. She is still facing charges of tampering with evidence and conspiracy to tamper with evidence.

Pruitt's body was found by mountain bikers adjacent to a hiking tail near Bridal Veil Falls in Fresnal Canyon in the Lincoln National Forest in June 2011.